Body Found In Pond at Kamloops Pulp Mill Site Identified as Missing Wildfire Evacuee

A report of a missing Williams Lake man who was evacuated last July to Kamloops during the 2017 wildfires has ended in tragedy after an autopsy was completed on a body that was located on the Domtar site.

Kamloops RCMP confirmed Tuesday that the body that was located at the site on March 7 is that of 67-year old David Jeff.

On Wednesday, March 7 at 3 pm, Kamloops RCMP were notified by Domtar employees that a body had been discovered in one of the ponds on the site at Mission Flats Road.

“Kamloops RCMP investigators are seeking the public’s assistance in determining a timeline of Mr. Jeff’s
activities prior to his death and how he came to be in the area where his body was found,” said Corporal Jodi Shelkie in a media release.

“Kamloops RCMP are asking anyone who spent time with David Jeff last summer to contact them. Specifically, if you know where he spent time during the day or where he was sleeping at night.”

Homeless outreach worker Wayne Lucier said that he was saddened by today’s news and that one of the first things he did was contact RCMP to verify because there have been many false rumors.

Jeff had been reported missing on July 31, 2017, resulting in an extensive investigation being undertaken, which included search efforts being conducted by RCMP, family, and friends.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.